Shillong: The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) today announced a significant stride in its mission to democratize shooting sports across the nation, with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Meghalaya and the Shooting Association of Meghalaya.
The historic event, witnessed by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K. Sangma, underscores NRAI’s intensified focus on grassroots development and talent identification, particularly in the vibrant North Eastern region.
President of the NRAI, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo said “I am immensely proud to witness this pivotal moment. This partnership is not merely a formality; it is a powerful declaration of our collective commitment to taking shooting sports beyond metropolitan centers and into the heart of India’s diverse communities. Our vision at NRAI is clear: to unlock the vast, untapped potential that resides in every corner of our country, nurture it with world-class infrastructure, and provide the necessary coaching and support to shape the champions of tomorrow. This initiative in Meghalaya is a testament to our strategy of being “on overdrive” in this pursuit.
The MoU outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration, focusing on several key areas. This includes the establishment of modern shooting ranges, the implementation of structured training programs for aspiring shooters, and the development of a robust coaching ecosystem. We believe that by providing accessible facilities and expert guidance, we can identify and hone talent from an early age, ensuring a continuous pipeline of skilled athletes ready to represent India on both national and international stages.
Shri Singh Deo said “The North East has always been a hotbed of sporting talent, and shooting is no exception,” I stated during the signing ceremony. “This collaboration with the Government of Meghalaya and the local shooting association is a crucial step in our broader strategy to ensure that every state, every district, has the opportunity to contribute to India’s shooting prowess. We are committed to providing the resources and expertise needed to transform aspirations into achievements, and I am confident that Meghalaya will soon emerge as a significant hub for shooting sports.”
This initiative is part of NRAI’s aggressive expansion drive, which seeks to replicate similar successful models across other states, particularly those with emerging sporting cultures. By fostering strong partnerships with state governments and local sporting bodies, NRAI aims to create a sustainable and inclusive environment for shooting sports, ensuring its growth from the grassroots level upwards.
The NRAI remains steadfast in its dedication to promoting shooting as a sport of discipline, precision, and excellence. Through such strategic alliances, we are not just building infrastructure; we are building dreams, fostering national pride, and shaping a brighter future for Indian shooting.